The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, along with merchant associations, has set a date to discuss the expansion of the Large Tourist Influx Zone (ZGAT) in Santa Cruz. This expansion would enable larger stores to operate on Sundays and public holidays, a topic which has sparked a debate between traditional retail and shopping centres. Carmen Pérez, the CEO of the Development Society, announced to Diario de Avisos yesterday that this discussion will be convened “in the next quarter.”
Pérez emphasised that Santa Cruz’s commercial sector, encompassing small and medium enterprises, large retail establishments, hotels, and restaurants, “requires this discussion, as the model for a large tourist influx zone has not been evaluated or modified for the past 14 years to tailor a strategy for the commercial future of the municipality.”
The mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, highlighted the importance of having all commercial stakeholders voice their opinions as soon as possible during this supramunicipal forum, which includes representation from the Canary Islands Government, Cabildo, Chamber of Commerce, and other institutions. He stressed the current contentious nature of the debate, stating, “We must strive for a consensus, which, although challenging, I am confident we can achieve.”
Regarding the mayor’s proposal to permit additional Sunday openings, he noted that the Commerce Bureau is the legitimising body, where all parties must express, emphasise, and defend their stances.
Bermúdez also referred to nearby examples, such as those in Las Palmas, as well as larger communities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga, which have adopted different shop opening practices. He indicated that now is the time to assess Santa Cruz’s specific needs and shape a tailored approach for commerce that does not undermine support for traditional businesses. However, he cautioned that “another pressing reality is the presence of electronic commerce, which is here to stay, and thus, future-oriented discussions are imperative.”
Amid the ongoing debate surrounding the ZGAT’s expansion, the Association of Restoration and Leisure Entrepreneurs (Aero) has also expressed its support for a “dynamic Sunday” featuring leisure activities and open restaurants and businesses. They argue that despite current challenges, Santa Cruz must aim to attract more tourists and visitors, fostering a vibrant city atmosphere that generates wealth.
